The Burn Bag Podcast

In this episode, A'ndre speaks with his old boss Dr. Paul Staniland, Professor of Political Science at the University of Chicago and a leading authority on political violence and South Asian security, for an in-depth conversation on the recent confrontation between India and Pakistan.Drawing on his extensive research into armed group-state relations and crisis dynamics, Staniland analyzes the strategic logic behind India's Operation Sindoor, launched in response to a deadly terrorist attack in Kashmir that killed 26 civilians. The conversation explores the evolving nature of India and Pakistan's disputes over Kashmir, the role of militant networks, and the risks of escalation in a nuclear-armed region shaped by domestic politics and great power rivalry.Topics covered include:The political and strategic rationale behind India's cross-border strikesPakistan's relationship with armed groups and its role in crisis escalationLessons from past India-Pakistan confrontations — and what may be different nowThe role of the U.S., China, and backchannel diplomacy in managing the ceasefireHow domestic politics contributed to the confrontationDr. Staniland offers a uniquely grounded perspective on how South Asia's most volatile rivalry is evolving — and what to watch for as both countries recalibrate their strategies under rising regional and global pressure.

In this episode, A'ndre speaks with Mark Linscott, former Assistant U.S. Trade Representative and one of Washington's most experienced trade negotiators, for an in-depth discussion on the logic and implications of President Trump's "reciprocal" tariffs.With decades of experience leading U.S. trade policy across multilateral institutions and bilateral platforms, Linscott offers expert analysis on how tariffs are being used as both an economic and geopolitical tool. The conversation covers the legal basis for executive tariff authority, the mechanics behind President Trump's “reciprocal tariffs,” and how Trump administration's actions will impact the global trade landscape.Topics covered include:• The fundamentals of tariff policy and the legal tools used to implement them• The scope and possible strategy behind Trump's April 2 “Liberation Day” tariffs• Escalating U.S.-China trade tensions and the role of 145% tariffs• Reactions from key partners such as India, and the broader global economic impact• How tariffs are being increasingly intertwined with national security concernsMark Linscott brings a uniquely informed perspective on how current tariff policies may redefine America's role in global trade — and what to watch as the economic and political consequences unfold.

In this episode, A'ndre speaks with Dr. Yousef Munayyer, Senior Fellow at the Arab Center Washington DC, about recent U.S. policy developments affecting pro-Palestinian activism, including efforts by the Trump administration to deport foreign students and activists involved in campus protests.The conversation explores how the war in Gaza is shaping political expression in the United States, particularly in the context of university activism, and examines broader questions around immigration policy, civic space, and public discourse. Dr. Munayyer also provides his view on U.S. support for Israel and how this is influencing domestic debates.Topics covered include:The current state of the conflict in Gaza and U.S. policy under both Biden and TrumpThe status of the two-state solution and implications of regional diplomacyCampus protests and public discourse surrounding Israel-PalestineRecent deportation efforts impacting international studentsThe intersection of foreign policy, free expression, and immigration enforcementPossible long-term impacts on U.S. civic space and international engagementDr. Munayyer authored a chapter Suppressing Dissent: Shrinking Civic Space, Transnational Repression, and Palestine-Israel, which you can find here.

This week, A'ndre is joined by former National Security Advisor Ambassador John Bolton for a wide-ranging conversation on the return of Donald Trump to the White House — and how the second term is stacking up against the first.Drawing from his front-row experience during Trump's first administration, Bolton reflects on the decision-making process he witnessed firsthand: the role of personality, the unpredictability, and the often transactional approach to global affairs. We dig into what's changed, what hasn't, and what it all means for U.S. national security.Topics include:How Trump's foreign policy in term two compares to term oneWho Trump listens to and who he does not, and how that shapes U.S. policyThe recent NSC firings and what it may signal about who has influenceTrump's approach to China, NATO, and the war in UkraineWhat to make of Trump's renewed talk of acquiring Greenland — and why Amb. Bolton believes there are real security interests behind the ideaHow Bolton views Trump's latest tariff decisions through the lens of his leadership styleAmb. Bolton brings his signature candor and deep institutional knowledge to the table as we explore whether the second Trump term is more strategic — or a continuation of its most unpredictable tendencies.

This week on the podcast, A'ndre is joined by renowned national security attorney Mark Zaid to unpack the rapidly unfolding scandal now known as Signalgate — a controversy sparked when a The Atlantic's Jeffrey Goldberg was accidentally added to a Signal group chat among senior Trump officials. The chat revealed detailed U.S. military strike plans against Houthi targets in Yemen just hours before the operation, raising alarm bells across Washington about operational security, the handling of sensitive information, and basic judgment at the highest levels of government.In this conversation, A'ndre asks:What laws were likely broken — and do they apply to former Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, and others in the chat?Is the Trump administration's defense that the info was “unclassified” legally sound — or dangerously misleading?Could a journalist face legal exposure for publishing the leaked Signal thread?What would've happened to a junior officer who made the same mistake?Are we in uncharted territory, legally and institutionally, as executive power is increasingly stretched?Plus, A'ndre and Mark dig into the broader crackdown on law firms and legal professionals seen as critical of the Trump administration, and what it means for checks and balances in the years ahead.Mark brings his decades of experience — representing whistleblowers, intelligence officers, and journalists — to help us break down the legal implications, national security risks, and systemic dangers of a White House seemingly operating outside the lines.

In this episode, A'ndre Gonawela sits down with historian Peter Roady to explore how the definition of national security has evolved over the 20th and 21st centuries. They examine how U.S. presidents have shaped national security priorities, focusing on Franklin Delano Roosevelt's vision in the 1930s—one that included economic security as a core pillar. Roady unpacks the conservative opposition to FDR's expansive view of national security and how this ideological struggle shaped modern policy debates. The conversation also considers how the concept of national security has expanded beyond military threats to include issues like gun violence, public health, climate change, and political extremism. Peter and A'ndre analyze whether we are seeing a return to a broader, more holistic understanding of security — similar to FDR's vision — or if national security remains narrowly defined by foreign policy and defense concerns.

In this episode, A'ndre Gonawela sits down with Dr. Jaime Yassif, Vice President of Global Biological Policy and Programs at NTI | bio, to explore the evolving landscape of biosecurity and pandemic preparedness. They discuss key lessons from COVID-19, the ongoing Bird Flu, the growing threats posed by zoonotic spillover, bioweapons, and AI-driven bio-risks, as well as the urgent need for stronger governance frameworks. Dr. Yassif shares insights from her recent engagements at the Paris AI Action Summit and the Munich Security Conference, highlighting global efforts to regulate biotechnology and AI's intersection with biosecurity. The conversation also examines historical lessons from the Asilomar Conference on bioscience, the balance between innovation and safety, and NTI's work on preventing biological risks before they materialize. 

NOTE: This episode was recorded several hours before the announcement that President Trump was pausing all U.S. military aid to Ukraine.In this episode, A'ndre Gonawela sits down with Ambassador Steven Pifer, former U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine and a leading expert on U.S.-Russia relations, to dissect the fallout from President Zelenskyy's recent visit to Washington and its impact on U.S.-Ukraine relations. They explore the broader geopolitical ramifications of Zelenskyy's contentious meeting with President Trump, including Europe's reaction and the shifting balance of U.S. global leadership. Ambassador Pifer provides insights into the current state of the Russia-Ukraine war, the feasibility of a ceasefire, and Ukraine's urgent push for security guarantees. The discussion also delves into the historical context of U.S. policy on Ukraine, the evolution of military aid, and mistakes made by past administrations. Ambassador Pifer provides his candid criticisms of President Trump's approach towards Ukraine and Russia, ponders why President Trump is conciliatory towards Russia, and provides his perspective on why the U.S. should continue to aid Ukraine as it fends off the Russian invasion.

This week, A'ndre examines former President Trump's decision to fire General CQ Brown as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, exploring the implications for U.S. military leadership, civil-military relations, and his potential replacement, LTG Dan Caine. He then turns to the U.S.-Ukraine critical minerals agreement, analyzing its potential to reshape the war effort while deepening U.S. strategic investment in the region. Lastly, he discusses the latest developments within the FBI under new Director Kash Patel and Deputy Director Dan Bongino, viewed as political loyalists who may upend dynamics within the bureau. Also covered: North Korea's expanded troop deployment to Ukraine, Kurdish leader Abdullah Ocalan's call for the PKK to disband, and Thailand's deportation of Uyghurs.

In this week's edition of What in the World?, A'ndre discusses the recent political turmoil in South Korea with his colleagues Alex Eid and Choong Hong, both experts on Korean affairs. Alex and Choong break down President Yoon Suk Yeol's short-lived declaration of martial law in December, his subsequent impeachment, arrest, and ongoing criminal case. They also provide historical context on South Korea's tumultuous political landscape, tracing the country's transition to democracy since the Korean War and examining the controversies that have plagued multiple presidents.

The Burn Bag is launching a new weekly series: "The World According to A'ndre." Every Friday, A'ndre will break down some of the biggest foreign policy stories he's been tracking, offering his insights and making them accessible to you, our audience.This week, A'ndre unpacks the latest developments in U.S.-Russia negotiations and the rising tensions between President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy—highlighting why they mark a significant shift from U.S. policy since Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine. He also examines the impact of DOGE cuts on key federal agencies essential to national security and foreign policy, including those overseeing the U.S. nuclear stockpile, cybersecurity, and institutions like the CDC, NIH, and USAID.Additionally, A'ndre breaks down President Trump's latest tariff announcements since taking office on January 20 and delves into the indictment of former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro over an alleged coup plot—along with shocking claims of a plot to poison incumbent President Lula.

In this episode, Dr. Anthony Fauci joins A'ndre for an in-depth conversation about his decades-long career in public health and his experiences leading the U.S. response to some of the world's most pressing infectious disease challenges. Dr. Fauci reflects on his early work during the HIV/AIDS crisis, the evolution of treatments that saved millions of lives, and his role in launching PEPFAR, one of the most significant global health initiatives in history. He  discusses his leadership at the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), navigating crises such as Ebola, Zika, H1N1, anthrax, and COVID-19, while working alongside multiple U.S. presidents to shape national and global health policies.Beyond his career in government, Dr. Fauci shares his thoughts on the intersection of public health and national security, the growing challenges of vaccine skepticism and misinformation, and the vital role of institutions like the NIH and CDC in protecting public health. He also highlights the major health threats that remain overlooked in mainstream discourse. Now a professor at Georgetown University, Dr. Fauci reflects on his transition to academia and the importance of training the next generation of medical leaders in an era of evolving global health challenges.You can purchase his recent memoir, On Call, here.

In this episode, A'ndre chat with his old boss Dr. Tanvi Madan, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution, to examine the evolving landscape of India's foreign policy and its relationship with the United States under a second Trump administration. Dr. Madan unpacks how India balances strategic autonomy with deepening alignments, particularly within the Indo-Pacific and the Quad. She reflects on the historical trajectory of U.S.-India ties, from India's independence to the Modi era, highlighting key shifts in security and economic cooperation. The discussion delves into trade tensions, dissecting Trump's renewed criticism of Indian tariffs and whether they will become a key friction point over the next four years. On the security front, Dr. Madan assesses the rapid growth of U.S.-India defense and technological collaboration while also addressing whether India's longstanding relationship with Russia has hindered deeper engagement with Washington. The conversation further examines India's recalibration of its approach to China, as New Delhi and Beijing take steps toward “normalization” following the 2020 border clashes. With Prime Minister Modi set to meet President Trump on February 13, Dr. Madan offers insights into what to expect from the summit and whether the second Trump administration is likely to deepen or complicate the U.S.-India partnership.

In this episode, A'ndre welcomes Professor Marlene Laruelle, a leading expert on Russian politics and nationalism, for a deep dive into the evolution of far-right politics in Russia. The discussion begins with a foundational exploration of fascism—how it is defined, how it differs from broader far-right politics, and whether Russia's current trajectory aligns with historical fascist movements. Professor Laruelle traces the development of Russian far-right ideology from the Soviet collapse to the present day, analyzing its intersections with Soviet-era communism and Tsarist-era nationalism. She examines how elements of Stalinism persist in Putinism and how Russian nationalism has evolved under Putin's leadership.The conversation also expands beyond Russia, addressing Moscow's role in exporting far-right ideology to Eastern Europe and the broader rise of far-right politics across the continent. Professor Laruelle considers whether these trends reflect a broader rejection of the global liberal order or if they are driven by country-specific dynamics. A'ndre and Professor Laruelle then discuss whether growing illiberalism in Europe could signal a deeper shift towards authoritarianism. Finally, they explore whether the rise of far-right politics in the United States mirrors trends in Europe and Russia, or if these movements are shaped by unique national contexts.NOTE: This episode was recorded on December 17, 2024.

On this week's What in the World, A'ndre chatted with Tahra Jirari, Director of Economic Analysis at the Chamber of Progress, on the devastating 2025 wildfires in Los Angeles and the urgent need for systemic reform. A'ndre and Tahra talked about the unprecedented scale of destruction caused by the wildfires, and why Tahra believes they have been exacerbated by regulatory hurdles, housing policies, and insufficient wildfire prevention efforts. Tahra explained how frameworks like the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and other regulations have inadvertently slowed crucial wildfire prevention projects, contributing to the crisis. Tahra outlined some of her policy recommendations, emphasizing the need for reforms to CEQA, fire-resistant construction mandates, and proactive wildfire prevention programs to address the growing risks. She also explored why urban neighborhoods tend to be more fire-resistant than suburban areas, the role of housing policy in pushing development into high-risk zones, and the implications of Proposition 103 for California's insurance market. Tahra advocated for an Operation Warp Speed-style initiative to tackle the wildfire crisis in Los Angeles, integrating innovative solutions and regulatory reforms to build long-term resilience.You can read Tahra's Medium op-ed, where she outlines her recommendations, here.

This episode is the second in a two-parter in collaboration with the Climate Migration Council, to highlight the Council's recent position statement on the linkages between security, climate change, and human migration.In December, A'ndre hosted Erin Sikorsky, Director of the Center for Climate and Security and a former Deputy Director on the National Intelligence Council, for a discussion on the national security implications of climate migration. The conversation centered on a new statement from the Climate Migration Council, co-authored by Sikorsky and prominent figures such as Leon Panetta, Michael Chertoff, Michael Morell, and Sharon Burke. The statement outlines urgent recommendations to address the security risks of climate change-driven displacement, including expanding the definition of security, investing in resilience, adopting anticipatory migration policies, and integrating climate migration into risk assessments.You can listen to A'ndre's conversation last week with Secretary Michael Chertoff on climate migration here.

This episode is the first in a two-parter in collaboration with the Climate Migration Council, to highlight the Council's recent position statement on the linkages between security, climate change, and human migration.This week, A'ndre welcomed former Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff to discuss the intersection of climate change, human migration, and national security. Reflecting on his experiences during the federal response to the 2007 California wildfires, Secretary Chertoff compared them to the ongoing Los Angeles wildfires, highlighting surprises from the current crisis and offering insights on preventing similar disasters in the future. He also explored how human migration is manifesting in the context of the fires and could do so in similar scenarios. The conversation delved into the DHS's role in managing natural disasters, immigration, and countering threats like arson and terrorism exacerbated by climate change. Secretary Chertoff emphasized the need for bipartisan support to address climate risks, enhance community resilience, and adopt a holistic approach to these interconnected challenges.You can listen to A'ndre's 2023 conversation with Secretary Chertoff on climate migration here.

RE-RELEASE: This episode was originally released in April 2024. The TikTok ban took effect late Saturday night, but may be revoked by President-elect Trump.This week, A'ndre is joined by Lindsay Gorman, the Managing Director & Senior Fellow at the German Marshall Fund's GMF Tech, to delve into the controversies surrounding TikTok and its implications for national security. Lindsay sheds light on ByteDance, the company behind TikTok, and discusses the concerns surrounding its data storage practices. A'ndre and Lindsay explore the concept of data sovereignty and discuss whether China can access ByteDance's data at will, and why it's different from how the U.S. Government engages with U.S.-based social media companies. Lindsay outlines the types of user data TikTok gathers, and touches upon how China can exploit this collected data. The conversation extends to China's history of leveraging social media platforms for targeting dissenters and the workings of TikTok's algorithms in content recommendation -- particularly with regards to misinformation and polarization. Lindsay offers insights into the likelihood of a TikTok divestiture (and why it's not a ban), legal challenges it might face, and the possibility of a U.S.-based firm acquiring TikTok. The discussion concludes with an examination of China's reaction to the scrutiny, and what Lindsay sees as the biggest myths surrounding TikTok.CORRECTION: A'ndre referenced a dispute between the FBI and Apple, incorrectly attributing it to the Boston Bombing investigation, when in actuality it was the 2015 San Bernardino Terror Attack

On Friday, A'ndre chatted with Dr. Lindsay Chervinsky, a presidential historian and Executive Director of the George Washington Presidential Library, to explore President Jimmy Carter's presidential and post-presidential foreign policy legacy following his passing at age 100. The discussion began by addressing public reactions to Carter's death and why the dichotomy of a “failed presidency but outstanding post-presidency” is misleading. Dr. Chervinsky highlighted Carter's foreign policy achievements, including the Camp David Accords, normalization of relations with China, handling of the Cold War, and the Panama Canal Treaty, as well as Carter's difficulties in dealing with the Iranian Hostage Crisis and inflation.They examined Carter's presidency in the context of the geopolitical landscape of the late 1970s and his approach to diplomacy, contrasting his administration with the subsequent Reagan era. The conversation also touched on Carter's post-presidential influence on foreign policy through the Carter Center and drew parallels between his legacy redefinition and that of John Quincy Adams.

On January 2nd, A'ndre sat down with former U.S. Secretary of Defense Mark Esper (2019-2020) to discuss key security challenges facing the United States in 2025 and the Department of Defense's preparedness in addressing them. They began their conversation with a focus on the Middle East, analyzing the aftermath of Assad's ouster and the HTS takeover in Syria, exploring the potential regional consequences of these developments. Secretary Esper also shared his insights on the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict and explained why he believes Iran is weaker than previously thought.The discussion then shifted to U.S.-China relations, with Secretary Esper offering his assessment on why the U.S. must do more to deter China in both security and economic spheres. A'ndre and Secretary Esper also delved into the state of innovation within the Department of Defense, examining the effectiveness of innovation initiatives in the U.S. Armed Forces. Secretary Esper reflected on his experience establishing Army Futures Command during his time as Secretary of the Army and discussed the challenges facing the U.S. defense industrial base, including potential munitions shortages related to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.The conversation concluded with A'ndre asking Secretary Esper about Ukraine's struggles on the battlefield against Russia, why a negotiated settlement appears increasingly likely, and some of the overlooked threats facing the incoming Trump administration.You can find Secretary Esper's auto-biography, A Sacred Oath, here.

A'ndre sat down with former CIA Director General (Ret.) David Petraeus to discuss the evolution of warfare since 1945, covering conflicts from World War II to Vietnam and the current wars in Ukraine and the Middle East. General Petraeus examines how warfare considerations shifted after World War II and explores the "wars of decolonization" that followed. Drawing on his experience commanding U.S.-led coalition forces in Iraq and Afghanistan, he reflects on what went right and wrong in those operations, disputing comparisons to the Vietnam War, which he describes as unsustainable. He also shares insights on why the War in Ukraine is unique, highlighting both its World War II-era tactics and the use of emerging technologies like unmanned vehicles. The conversation extends to the ongoing War in Gaza and the broader Middle East, where Petraeus offers his perspective on the nature of Israel's warfighting. A'ndre and General Petraeus conclude with a discussion on how he would advise the next President on national security, emphasizing the importance of the Indo-Pacific region.You can purchase the newest edition of General Petraeus' book Conflict: The Evolution of Warfare from 1945 to Gaza here.

On Thursday, Israel announced that it had killed Hamas' de facto leader Yahya Sinwar near Rafah, a significant development for the ongoing War in Gaza. A'ndre chatted with his old friend and mentor Javed Ali, former Senior Director for Counterterrorism on the U.S. National Security Council, about his reactions to the development and what it could mean for the broader crisis in the Middle East. Javed compares the killing of Sinwar to the elimination of Hezbollah's Hassan Nasrallah, contrasting what effect those leadership deaths could have on both organizations. A'ndre and Javed also discuss whether the outlook for the military campaign will change in the days ahead, and if there could be a spike in potential lone wolf terror attacks.

In this re-release of our popular episode from October 2021 (excuse the old theme music!), A'ndre and Ryan speak with George Will, Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist and author, on what it means to practice a 'conservative' foreign policy. Dr. Will, who has published a twice-weekly column in The Washington Post since 1974, provides his definition of what it means to be conservative, discussing the intellectual conservative movement that prospered in the post-war era. He then goes into his views on what a conservative foreign policy actually means, why Reagan and Eisenhower were exemplars of it, and why Donald Trump was not, in his view, conservative. Distinguishing between conservatism and neoconservatism, Dr. Will discusses why he believes liberal internationalism is 'armed humanitarianism',  and the mistakes made in Afghanistan, Iraq, and the broader Middle East. Touching on recent events in the news, Dr. Will talks the U.S.-China rivalry, and his thoughts on the Intelligence Community and the equation of whether security trumps freedoms. We close out the conservation with a short conversation on Dr. Will's new book, American Happiness and Discontents: The Unruly Torrent, 2008-2020, and why Dr. Will abhors denim. Yes, denim.

This week, A'ndre welcomes a unique guest: The Most Rev. Michael Curry, Presiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church. Some of our audience may recall Bishop Curry's captivating sermon during the 2018 Royal Wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. He has been an outspoken advocate on various social and political issues, discussing the Episcopal Church's role in policy advocacy amid rising toxicity in discussions about religion and politics.Bishop Curry addresses the church's unique stance on LGBTQ+ rights and reflects on the divisions within the global Anglican communion, particularly regarding Uganda's severe penalties for LGBTQ+ individuals. He also shares his perspective on the ongoing conflict in Gaza and how he approaches conversations about it, given the region's significance to the three major Abrahamic religions.A'ndre and the Bishop conclude the episode with a discussion on Christian Nationalism, where Bishop Curry offers strong critiques of the concept.

Following Israel's targeted killing of Hezbollah Chief Hassan Nasrallah, the pager explosions, and the ongoing escalation in Southern Lebanon, A'ndre sat down with Dr. Matthew Levitt from the Washington Institute to discuss anything and everything relating to Hezbollah. Dr. Levitt, who wrote Hezbollah: The Global Footprint of Lebanon's Party of God, provides a brief history of the militant group's origins during the 1982 Lebanon War and its linkages to the Iranian regime. A'ndre and Dr. Levitt discuss what power Hezbollah wields in Lebanon as both a militant organization and a political entity, its relationship with the Lebanese government, and public perceptions of the group. The two also talk about the Hassan Nasrallah's death and the state of Hezbollah following the elimination of much of its command structure. Dr. Levitt provides his perspectives on Hezbollah's relationship with Hamas and other Palestinian militant groups, and breaks down the motivations behind Hezbollah's military actions since October 7.

The Burn Bag will be covering the Israel-Gaza War over the course of several episodes, sourcing multiple perspectives on the conflict. The Burn Bag does not officially endorse any views expressed by our guests, but rather brings those perspectives to you, the audience, and will continue to provide a diverse array of voices on the program. In this episode, A'ndre introduces Uri Bar-Joseph, professor emeritus at Haifa University and author of the new book Beyond the Iron Wall. Together, they delve into the security failures that led to the October 7th attacks, considering why Israel's security apparatus was caught off guard and what lessons can be drawn from historical events like the Yom Kippur War. Uri argues that Israel does not have an overarching  strategy in its War in Gaza nor with its actions in Lebanon. Uri discusses the complexities of Israel's "security lifestyle," his reactions to the recent pager attacks targeting Hezbollah, the Israeli government's perceptions of Hamas, and the broader political landscape. Uri also talks about why he believes the Israeli government is averse to political resolutions and the challenges posed by settlements in the West Bank, in addition to his criticisms of Benjamin Netanyahu's handling of the war and the broader Israeli-Palestinian relationship. This insightful conversation aims to unpack the reasons behind recent events and ponder the future of Israeli-Palestinian relations.NOTE: This episode was recorded on September 19, several days before the escalation in Southern Lebanon.

On Saturday, President Joe Biden will host the leaders of India, Japan, and Australia in Wilmington, Delaware, for his final Quad summit. What is the Quad? To explore this four-way partnership and preview the summit, A'ndre is joined by Aman Thakker, an Adjunct Fellow with the Chair in U.S.-India Policy Studies at CSIS.They discuss the Quad's history, including its inception in 2004 after the Indian Ocean tsunami, its revitalization in 2017, and why it shouldn't be seen as an "Asian NATO." Aman contrasts the views of the Trump and Biden administrations on the Quad and provides insights into India's engagement in the partnership, highlighting its policy of "multi-alignment."A'ndre and Aman conclude by previewing this Saturday's summit and discussing potential outcomes and announcements from the four leaders that they expect.CORRECTION: A'ndre refers to the Quad as a security dialogue in his introduction. While some have referred to the group in this lens, none of the four member-states refer to the Quad as that, and it's more accurate to refer to the partnership as a diplomatic grouping.

A powerful U.S. Senator. A leading aide to the New York Governor. A leading Korea expert. All prominent figures in the last several months who have been accused of being foreign agents, working on behalf of foreign governments to influence U.S. policy. To make sense of this all, A'ndre chatted with Casey Michel, author of Foreign Agents and the Director of the Combating Kleptocracy Program at the Human Rights Foundation, to understand the history of foreign lobbying in the United States and to talk through some of the more high profile cases. Casey profiles Ivy Lee, the father of the modern PR industry, and how he helped fascist dictators like Adolf Hitler and Benito Mussolini in the 1930s sell their ideologies to the broader public. The discussion also covered Paul Manafort, a convicted felon and former GOP strategist known for his work on the Donald Trump and Bob Dole presidential campaigns. A'ndre and Casey reviewed recent notable cases, including:Senator Bob Menendez's recent conviction that he accepted gold bars to promote policy favored by the Egyptian government; Former NSC official and think tank expert Sue Mi Terry's alleged advocacy of South Korean interests on behalf of her Korean government handlers;New York Governor Kathy Hochul's aide Linda Sun's alleged engagement in political activities in China's interest within the governor's office;and former Senator Bob Dole's advocacy on behalf of a Russian oligarch.You can purchase Casey's new book, Foreign Agents, here.

This week, A'ndre chatted with Eliot Higgins, an award-winning journalist who founded the citizen journalism outlet Bellingcat, a fact-checking platform utilizing open-source intelligence focusing on international affairs. Eliot talks about his initial work studying the Syrian Civil War and the conflict in Libya, and how he was able to identify key war crimes from analyzing open-source and publicly available data. He describes the thought process that led him to found Bellingcat and gives us a behind-the-scenes look at the platform's initial investigation into the shoot-down of Malaysian Airlines Flight 17 by Russian-backed militias. A'ndre and Eliot discuss how Bellingcat and citizen journalism at large have operated in the context of the ongoing wars in Gaza and Ukraine, in addition to talking about the challenges of disinformation in its work. Eliot gives his take on AI-generated images and videos and if he's worried about the proliferation of such content, and whether governments have pursued him as a result of his investigative work.

Vladimir Putin launched his invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022. Within hours, the U.S. and allies coordinated a shadow-war – using the tools of economic statecraft – to bring the heat down on Moscow. That shadow-war is the subject of this week's conversation featuring Stephanie Baker, veteran Bloomberg journalist and Russia expert, as she talks about this economic war, how it was coordinated, how it was executed, and how it has continually impacted the Russian economy and politics. Stephanie and A'ndre talk through what economic warfare actually is and how those tools were leveraged in the years preceding the War in Ukraine, and to what effect. Stephanie also provides a broad overview of what the state of the Russian economy is in 2024, and responds to criticisms that some have over sanctions. We close out the conversation with an outlook on what a potential Harris or second Trump administration may do.You can pre-order Stephanie's new book, Punishing Putin, here: https://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1668050587?tag=simonsayscom 

Send us a Text Message.This week, A'ndre chatted with Sara Wahedi, an award-winning Afghan technologist and humanitarian who created Ehtesab, a crisis notification app that has provided Kabul residents in Afghanistan with real-time emergency alerts. A'ndre and Sara chatted on the three year anniversary of the Taliban's takeover of the country, with Sara sharing her reflections on the plight of women since 2021. Sara shares the story of how she developed Ehtesab after surviving a suicide bombing in Kabul, and discusses some of the difficulties in navigating a range of socio-economic and political circumstances during the app's creation and operation. Reflecting on her Afghan identity, Sara discusses the resilience she's seen among the women of Afghanistan, and how so many were hopeful before 2021. A'ndre and Sara talk about the international community's engagement with Afghanistan and some of Sara's reactions to ongoing negotiations with the Taliban.You can follow Sara and her incredible work on Twitter: @SaraWahedi

Send us a Text Message.The Burn Bag returns after a brief hiatus, and we're bringing back "What in the World?" A series where A'ndre talks about ongoing current events with other youthful foreign policy professionals, experts, and geeks.This week, A'ndre chats with his old UChicago classmate Gabriela Saade about the ongoing political crisis unfolding after Venezuela's recent elections. While incumbent President Nicolas Maduro has claimed victory, the opposition and multiple international organizations have argued that the election was rigged; protests have broken out, with multiple arrests taking place. Gabriela, who grew up in Venezuela, used to do research for National Assembly opposition politicians in the mid-2010s,and co-founded a non-profit In the country that aimed to provide humanitarian assistance to disaffected areas. During the conversation, Gabriela provides a rundown of the Venezuelan political landscape over the last decade under Maduro, outlining the key controversies surrounding the election, explaining the opposition's claims and purported evidence. A'ndre and Gabriela also discuss the crackdown on political expression in Venezuela and the ongoing economic crisis, with Gabriela sharing some of her on-the-ground experience from years past.

Send us a Text Message.This week, A'ndre welcomed back to The Burn Bag Brian Morra, a retired Air Force Intelligence Officer and the author of The Righteous Arrows, a fictionalized account of U.S. proxy efforts during the Soviet-Afghan War. A'ndre and Brian discuss heightened tensions between the United States and the Soviet Union during the mid-1980s, outlining the motivations behind why the U.S. Government decided to arm the mujahideen 'resistance' against the Soviet military. Brian outlines why the U.S. Government's failure to ponder the 'day after' a Soviet defeat is an example of the law of unintended consequences -- given the rise of extremist Islamic militant groups in Afghanistan such as Al Qaeda and the Taliban. The two also chat about the lessons that the Soviet-Afghan War provide for the current day, especially with the ongoing War in Ukraine and crises in the Middle East.You can listen to our first interview with Brian, on the 1983 Nuclear War Scare here:  https://bit.ly/3JhunxK.You can purchase Brian's new book The Righteous Arrows, which has already won several literature awards, here: https://www.amazon.com/Righteous-Arrows-Brian-J-Morra-ebook/dp/B0CW28XN1X 

This week, A'ndre and Andrea speak with former SOF-CENTCOM commander LTG Michael Nagata and former senior State Department official Laurel Miller on a recent USIP report on counterterrorism in Afghanistan and Pakistan.  LTG Nagata and Laurel discuss how the counterterrorism landscape has changed since 2021, outlining the different terror groups in the region, from al Qaeda and ISIS-K to anti-Pakistan and anti-India groups such as the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) group. The two guests share their thoughts on the Afghanistan withdrawal, and the faulty intertwining of counterterrorism and counter-insurgency, and also share thoughts on the growth of these terror groups amidst ongoing tensions in the broader Middle East and South Asia regions. LTG Nagata and Laurel also discuss U.S. cooperation with Pakistan and India on counterterrorism, and whether or not the U.S. should work with or pressure the Taliban in Afghanistan. A'ndre and Andrea close out the conversation with LTG Nagata and Laurel through a conversation on how counterterrorism can be tied to strategic competition priorities.For more information, and to read the report, click on the link below:https://www.usip.org/publications/2024/05/senior-study-group-counterterrorism-afghanistan-and-pakistan-final-report (https://www.usip.org/publications/2024/05/senior-study-group-counterterrorism-afghanistan-and-pakistan-final-report)

This week, Andrew interviews Eric and Greg Levesque, co-founders of Strider Technologies. Strider is a tech company that utilizes open-source data and AI methodologies to provide strategic intelligence to governments, corporations, and research institutions around the world to proactively identify and mitigate nation-state-directed IP theft, talent recruitment, and supply chain threats. Eric and Greg walk us through how open-source information capabilities have expanded dramatically since the COVID-19 pandemic and the "industry battlespace" in the Great Power Competition landscape. The second half of the conversation is devoted to Strider's new report, Shifting Ice, which outlines how Russia has begun to utilize Chinese commercial capabilities in the Arctic. Andrew, Eric, and Greg, wrap up with an overview of what the Arctic security space may look like by 2030.

Last week, co-hosts Andrea Ochoa and Christina Oh attended the 2024 NATO Youth Summit, which was a collaborative event hosted by NATO, The Aspen Institute, Aspen Institute Romania, the Swedish Defence University and the Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency. The event focused on global security issues and enhancing youth understanding of the transatlantic alliance, including how the alliance can address current and future security challenges. As part of the event, Burn Bag sat down with some of the following panelists and speakers: • Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell, U.S. Department of State• Vice Admiral Guy Robinson, Chief of Staff, NATO Allied Command  Transformation (ACT) • Colonel Florian Lemoine, Scientific Advisor, NATO Allied Command Transformation (ACT)• Lauren Walsh, Professor and Director of the Gallatin Photojournalism Initiative, NYUTopics included INDOPACOM U.S./NATO priorities, NATO multi-strategic operations, NATO emerging technologies and defense innovation, and more. The 2024 NATO Youth Summit also featured the work and idea exchange of some of the Summit's Youth Challenge Winners, who proposed a variety of ideas to help shape a more secure tomorrow. These challenge winners will be featured in our next episode as part of our 2-part series covering this event.

This week, A'ndre and Andrew interview Dr. Gregory Stanton, founder of Genocide Watch on the process of genocide, genocide in modern warfare, and efforts towards reconciliation. Dr. Stanton has been a key figure in the genocide prevention movement for several decades, and walks the audience through his '10 Stages of Genocide' framework. Dr. Stanton outlines why he believes total war / 'carpet bombing' is an act of genocide, citing the firebombing of Dresden and Tokyo, in addition to the atomic bombings, as examples of this. Dr. Stanton provides his thoughts on why he believes a 'double genocide' has been attempted by both the Israeli Government and Hamas, and also provides his thoughts on accusations of genocide during the Sri Lankan Civil War. The hosts and Dr. Stanton talk about the practicalities of transitional justice and reconciliation, discussing examples in Rwanda. Dr. Stanton also provides his perspectives on discussing genocide during the reconciliation process, since it is the 'ultimate accusation'.

This week, A'ndre chatted with former Director of National Intelligence Jim Clapper on the recent strikes exchanged between Israel and Iran, Israel's conduct in Gaza, and the broader regional dynamics at play. Director Clapper, who served as DNI between 2010-2017, discusses his initial reactions to the October 7th Attacks, recalling his own visit to the Gaza border in 2014 and talking about why the Israeli Government may have viewed Hamas as a 'benign' threat. Director Clapper outlines his perceptions on Prime Minister Netanyahu's maneuvering, and his concerns on why Israel's conduct in the war will only breed more terrorists that will join Hamas, rather than eliminate the organization. Director Clapper provides his view on President Biden's handling of the war, and why he believes there should be conditions attached to U.S. weapon aid to Israel. A'ndre and Director Clapper then move into a broader conversation on the ongoing tensions and potential for conflict between Israel and Iran, with Director Clapper asserting that the two countries had crossed a 'Rubicon' with the exchange of direct strikes over the last several weeks. The two discuss whether the Israel-Iran conflict will intensify, Iran's hardline leadership, relations between Iran and proxy groups, and the Director's forecast on the regional crisis in general.

In this episode, A'ndre and Andrea welcome Jonna Mendez, a distinguished former Chief of Disguise in the CIA's Office of Technical Service, for an intriguing discussion on espionage, disguise, and Jonna's groundbreaking career. Known for her role that is sometimes akin to "Q" from the James Bond series, Jonna sheds light on her 27-year tenure at the CIA, where she specialized in clandestine photography and innovative disguise tactics in some of the most hostile theaters of the Cold War.  The conversation explores the art of disguise, examining what makes a good disguise, the contingency plans for disguise failures, and how these tactics differed from those of adversaries. Jonna also shares her perspective on how technological advancements, especially biometrics, impact modern clandestine operations and what innovations the CIA's Directorate of Science and Technology is pursuing.  Jonna also discusses the challenges of proving herself in a male-dominated field and the significance of mentorship in her success. You can check out Jonna's book, In True Face, here.

This week, A'ndre is joined by Lindsay Gorman, the Managing Director & Senior Fellow at the German Marshall Fund's GMF Tech, to delve into the controversies surrounding TikTok and its implications for national security. Lindsay sheds light on ByteDance, the company behind TikTok, and discusses the concerns surrounding its data storage practices. A'ndre and Lindsay explore the concept of data sovereignty and discuss whether China can access ByteDance's data at will, and why it's different from how the U.S. Government engages with U.S.-based social media companies. Lindsay outlines the types of user data TikTok gathers, and touches upon how China can exploit this collected data. The conversation extends to China's history of leveraging social media platforms for targeting dissenters and the workings of TikTok's algorithms in content recommendation -- particularly with regards to misinformation and polarization. Lindsay offers insights into the likelihood of a TikTok divestiture (and why it's not a ban), legal challenges it might face, and the possibility of a U.S.-based firm acquiring TikTok. The discussion concludes with an examination of China's reaction to the scrutiny, and what Lindsay sees as the biggest myths surrounding TikTok.CORRECTION: A'ndre referenced a dispute between the FBI and Apple, incorrectly attributing it to the Boston Bombing investigation, when in actuality it was the 2015 San Bernardino Terror Attack

This week, Christina interviews Sophie Rutenbar (she/her), a visiting fellow in the Strobe Talbott Center for Security, Strategy, and Technology in the Foreign Policy program at Brookings, and a Visiting Scholar at New York University's Center on International Cooperation. With experience as the Planning Officer for the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH), based in Port-au-Prince, Sophie has extensive experience on the ground in the first African Republic. With the renewed wave of gang violence and the recent resignation of its prime minister, Christina and Sophie discuss the many factors that have lead to this flashpoint in Haiti, and the unique political landscape of the country. 

This week, A'ndre is joined by Javed Ali, a former counterterrorism official who served as Senior Director of Counterterrorism on the National Security Council, to discuss Friday's horrific ISIS terror attacks at the Crocus City Hall in Moscow, Russia. Javed and A'ndre discuss what ISIS-K is, and how the Afghan-based group is different from the 'core' ISIS that has operated in Iraq and Syria. Javed outlines how ISIS-K has grown in recent years and their abilities to plot attacks outside of their locality, citing the recent ISIS-K suicide bombings in Iran and foiled plots in Europe. A'ndre and Javed also chat about how U.S. Intelligence warned both Russia and Iran in the days preceding the respective ISIS-K attacks and how the Afghanistan withdrawal has affected intelligence gathering. Javed provides his take on the profiles of those who have conducted ISIS-K's attacks, and whether the tactics taken in Moscow bare parallels to the 2015 Paris Attacks or 2008's 26/11 attacks in Mumbai.

This week, A'ndre chatted with former Secretary of Defense (and CIA Director, and Chief of Staff, and Congressman!) Leon Panetta on a litany of key national security and foreign policy topics relating to the Israel-Gaza War, Russia-Ukraine, the U.S.-China relationship, and the 2024 Presidential Election. A'ndre and Secretary Panetta spent a good chunk of the interview discussing the ongoing War in Gaza, his views on a ceasefire, Benjamin Netanyahu, criticism of the Biden Administration, and why the U.S. needs to take a more proactive role on a two-state solution. Secretary Panetta also provides his take on the potential conditioning of U.S. military aid to Israel, particularly if the IDF enters Rafah and civilian casualties continue to mount. Secretary Panetta reacts to the death of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny and answers if he is more pessimistic about the War in Ukraine today than he was a year ago. The former CIA Director also provides strong criticisms of congressional inaction on continued funding for Ukraine, and why polarization will damage U.S. credibility. A'ndre and Secretary Panetta close out with a brief conversation on China, and the Secretary 's thoughts on the intersections of foreign policy and the 2024 Presidential Election.

The Burn Bag will be covering the Israel-Gaza War over the course of several episodes, sourcing multiple perspectives on the conflict. The Burn Bag does not officially endorse any views expressed by our guests, but rather bring those perspectives to you, the audience. Former Egyptian Foreign Minister Nabil Fahmy returns to The Burn Bag to discuss his views and reactions to the ongoing War in Gaza, a potential ceasefire, a two-state solution, and Egypt's role in the conflict. A'ndre and Mr. Fahmy discuss Egypt's relationship with Israel and what Egypt's policy on Gaza has been since 2006, including the rationale behind Egypt's support for Israel's blockade on Gaza. Mr. Fahmy reacts to the news that the Biden Administration aims to build a port in Gaza for humanitarian aid, in addition to outlining why Egypt will not open its border near Rafah to Gazans. The two delve into Egypt's role in negotiating a ceasefire, the political goals of Hamas, and what political entity should represent the Palestinians given their fractured political landscape. Mr. Fahmy responds to suggestions that Arab Governments should 'govern' Gaza after the war, and also shares his view on media echo chambers.

NOTE: Shebhaz Sharif, brother of Nawaz Sharif, was sworn in as Prime Minister on 3/4. This episode was recorded several days before, on 2/29.This week, A'ndre chatted with Uzair Younus, Principal at The Asia Group and host of Pakistonomy, about Pakistan's recent elections involving jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan, recently-unexiled former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, and the military actors who may ultimately call the political shots. Uzair provides a general history of Pakistan's politics, giving context around each of the major players and dissecting the claim that 'the military' is in charge of Pakistan, and why 'the military's' preferred Prime Minister has changed over the years. A'ndre and Uzair also chat about who exactly 'the military' is, and why it should not be considered a single entity but rather as several key actors in the security and defense apparatus. Uzair provides key political profiles on Imran Khan and Nawaz Sharif, and outlines why it appears neither of them will be named Prime Minister after a chaotic election cycle. The two discuss why Pakistan's elections are so significant, and conclude with a conversation on what the implications  for U.S.-Pakistan relations are.

This week, Andrew is joined by Dave Sterling, CEO of Royce Geo. Royce Geo, based in Arlington, Virginia, supports mission partners in the Department of Defense and Intelligence Community with geospatial analytics and training platforms. Andrew and Dave discuss the usefulness of geospatial information in decision-making, the growth of the commercial industry supporting GEOINT capabilities, and what the future looks like in the geospatial analysis field.

This week, A'ndre chatted with Bonnie Glaser, one of the country's premier Taiwan experts and the Managing Director of the German Marshall Fund's Indo-Pacific program, on all things related to Taiwan. Bonnie provides a quick overview of Taiwan's contemporary history, outlining how the U.S. and China have engaged with Taiwan's Government, the U.S. policy of strategic ambiguity, and why China aims to claim Taiwan as its own. Bonnie discusses why she believes that China will NOT invade Taiwan in the near-future, and also what the recent Taiwanese Presidential Elections mean for Cross-Strait relations. A'ndre and Bonnie also chat about the significance of Taiwan's economy to global supply chains (particularly in the technology domain), and why any conflict over island would likely upend the global economy.You can check out Bonnie's book (co-authored with Brookings' Ryan Hass and Dr. Richard Bush), U.S.-Taiwan Relations: Will China's Challenge Lead to a Crisis? here.

This week, Andrea and Andrew sit down with Bruce Hoffman and Jacob Ware to discuss their new book God, Guns, and Sedition. Hoffman and Ware are both fellows at the Council on Foreign Relations specializing in counterterrorism and share their insights regarding the evolution of domestic terrorism in the United States, motivations behind acts of terrorism, organizational tactics, and how to combat disinformation. Check out God, Guns, and Sedition: Far-Right Terrorism in America here.

This week, Andrea speaks with Matthew McKnight, General Biosecurity Manager at Ginkgo Bioworks. Matthew and Andrea discuss the multitude of opportunities available for developments in biotechnology and mitigating national security threats through biological innovation. A new form of intelligence collection, BIOINT, is threaded into the conversation and posits a new way of identifying biological threats. Learn about all of this, including government and private sector biological security threat mitigation, in this episode. Check out additional links to supplement our conversation here: BIOINT as an Intelligence Collection Method Increasing Threat of Zoonotic Spillover EventsMatthew McKnight on the Intersection of Biosecurity, Biodefence, National Security, and Related Issues

Ian Bremmer, President of the Eurasia Group, returns to The Burn Bag for a chat with A'ndre on his Top Risks 2024 report -- Eurasia Group's annual forecast of the top geopolitical risks most likely to play out over the coming year. A'ndre and Ian started the conversation with the #1 Risk, the "United States vs. Itself," as Ian outlines why the 2024 U.S. Presidential Election will test American democracy to a point unseen since the Civil War. The Middle East Tinderbox, in the wake of the Israel-Gaza War, defines Risk #2 as Ian explains why the risk of a regional war breaking out is so high given the many actors involved in the conflict. The two then discuss why Ukraine is likely to be de facto partitioned, and why Ukraine can 'lose' the war but Russia can't 'win'. Ian talks at length about the risks around 'ungoverned AI', discussing why governments are unable to keep up with rapid developments in artificial intelligence. A'ndre and Ian discuss other risks during the episode, such as the Axis of Rogues (Russian, Iranian, and North Korean alignment) and some Red Herrings, including why the U.S.-China relationship isn't a top risk this year.

Over the holidays, A'ndre chatted with AUKUS Defense Investor Network Co-Chairs Heather Richman (U.S.), Adrian Jones (U.K.), and Jamie Watson (Australia) about how AUKUS, the trilateral security partnership between the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia, aims to fill key gaps in critical technologies. We talk about what AUKUS is, how it works, and why it is unique as a defense technology sharing agreement. The three co-chairs summarize the differences between Pillar I and Pillar II (why AUKUS isn't just about submarines, but way more!), highlighting some of the key tech focus areas in Pillar II. They also share insights into how their respective countries view AUKUS and defense innovation, and discuss why they co-founded the AUKUS Defense Investors Network.